Another Look at The Laughing Policeman (***) and serial killer “procedurals” in the early 1970’s
Police “procedurals” then and now spend much of their time ignoring rules, then thanking those who advised them on police work.
Glass Onion (****) – As though chidden of Muppets
It doesn’t present anything one might see in real life, but then, that’s why we see movies. Who wants real life?
The Menu (****) – Willy Wonka in hell
Even with the tongue firmly in cheek, there will be some who step away from the film viewing only what they see, but not why they see it.
Netflix’ Army of Thieves (***1/2) is a sweet heist
Army of Thieves feels as quaint as a home movie compared to Army of the Dead.
The Girl Who Got Away (**) didn’t get far enough
There are no real jump scares or even surprises that land, but it’s good enough for a person who doesn’t expect much out of a rental.
Last Night In Soho (*****) what a lovely name…
This is the film of the year.
Escape Room: Tournament of Champions Theatrical (**) vs. Extended Edition (***)
Neither version of the story is a bad film, if you like the intesity solving puzzles before doom strikes.
Old (**) – It’s better to burn out…
There are no performances that will resonate, as the constantly shifting variables give everyone a form of schizophrenia to the point of mild annoyance.
The Woman in the Window (**1/2) wears its influence out
There is next to no thrill the viewer gets from seeing Adams huff her way through the scenes, wondering if she’s imagining things or if her life is even worth living.
Oxygen (****) is high tension
If you can handle a story with real tension and digital countdowns, start here.
Forgotten Gem: Murder By Death (****) is about the punchline
If you like Knives Out, this film is at least a spiritual predecessor to that comic mystery masterpiece. Absurdity is a journey in an of itself. The mystery is a bonus.
Fatale (***1/2) – Attraction
This film is a good time showing beautiful bad people.
Netflix’ I Care A Lot. (****) a new type of hunt for an old type of animal
This is a solid entry for Netflix. In picking Blakeson, a mildly accomplished director with a good, albeit short track record and allowing him to thrive, its very clear indication that they’ve turned a corner as a studio.
Twilight (**) Not THAT one – is a movie out of time
It is sad, but time waits for no one.
Charley Varrick (**1/2) A simpler, more horrible time
Matthau’s line about this is better than any line in the film “I have seen it three times, and am of slightly better than average intelligence but I still don’t quite understand what’s going on. Is there a device we can use to explain to people what they’re seeing?”
Sea Fever (***1/2) is The Thing in the Sea
For those unfamiliar with Alien or, better John Carpenter’s The Thing, Sea Fever will be a surprise.
Ebert Did It Better: Gasbag Reviews 